Washakie County Homemakers 2023 Unsung Hero

Linda Abell was pleasantly surprised to be named the Washakie County Homemakers 2023 Unsung Hero.

"There are so many more deserving than me," said Abell. It's that humbleness that has won award after award for her.

"I have a wall where I put my awards," she said. "I learned early on what volunteering meant when I watched my own parents win volunteering awards for the organizations they belonged to.'

The mother of three boys, Abell was first a room mother and a volunteer 4-H leader and volunteer at the county fair.

Abell moved from Thermopolis to Worland in 1980 and quickly became a volunteer for the Washakie Museum, the thrift shop, hospital auxiliary and president of Episcopal Church Women. Her idea of murder mysteries for the museum was a popular hit. She also helped raise funds for her church's landscaping project.

As a good friend of former Worland Mayor LaVertha Gotier, the mayor told Abell new ideas are needed to arouse energy for the town. The two came up with CultureFest. "The first year was well attended and it just kept growing," said Abell. "The community loved it."

As a former manager for the local Red Cross, Abell had ideas to raise money for the chapter. "People will buy a ticket for $20 rather than being asked to pay $5," she said.

Abell added, "The Red Cross as well as other charities send out mailings asking for donations. Most of the time, the mailings go into the trash; however, when we had events, concerts, halloween fun, etc. and our tickets were $20 we would be sold out. People like to participate in events, be entertained and made to feel special and appreciated."

Abell was also responsible for bringing the Vietnam Wall to Worland. "I also worked with Ray Varney to hold a military appreciation," she said. "How wonderful it was to come to Worland."

Now she is active in the Washakie County Homemakers. "I owe Ruthie Bower for stopping at the Homemaker booth during a Women's Expo." said Abell. "We both became members."

At the time Abell was asked to decorate the mirror case at the Community Center. She enlisted the help of dear friend Mary Donnell. "She is my other set of eyes," Abell said. "She is my soul sister." Their creativeness has led to beautiful display after display.

When she isn't volunteering for one thing or the other Abell loves to read. She also loves to cook and bake and take care of her husband Stanton.

An avid animal lover, Abell enjoys walking her beloved dog Annie.

Abell will be honored by the Homemakers at their annual spring brunch May 6.

Of the Homemakers, Abell said "They are the most wonderful, warm, inviting, happy and funny group of women. Being a Homemaker is fun, serious and educational."